These efforts aim to ensure the safety, comfort, and smooth mobility of the public.
“This inspection is part of maintaining safe transportation,” Minister Dudy said after reviewing key transportation hubs in Banjarmasin, namely the Gambut Barakat Type A Terminal and Trisakti Port, according to a statement from Jakarta on Saturday.
During his visit, the minister also personally took a ride on the Trans Banjarbakula service.
Minister Dudy closely observed the condition of transportation facilities, especially passenger terminals and ports, which serve as crucial nodes for public movement.
“We have checked everything. The buses are all in good condition. Vehicle inspection data and roadworthiness (ramp checks) for each bus operator are also complete. I hope adherence to these safety procedures can be maintained and continuously improved,” he said.
At the Gambut Barakat Type A Terminal, the minister inspected several buses, including intercity and interprovincial (AKAP) buses, as well as regular and pioneer Damri buses. He also engaged in conversations with bus drivers.
The terminal spans an area of 42,000 square meters, with a building area of 5,848 square meters. It serves as a departure point for AKAP buses traveling to East and Central Kalimantan, covering 19 routes in total.
In 2024, the terminal handled a total of 1,844,169 passengers (arrivals and departures) and 187,245 vehicles.
After inspecting the terminal facilities and bus fleet, Minister Dudy conducted a trial ride on the Trans Banjarbakula route from Gambut Barakat Terminal to the Siring 0 Km Stop in Banjarmasin.
Trans Banjarbakula is part of the Teman Bus program initially launched by the Ministry of Transportation in 2022. After successful operation, the management of this buy-the-service (BTS) bus scheme was transferred to the South Kalimantan provincial government in 2024.
The minister praised the provincial government of South Kalimantan for its strong support of public transportation services.
He expressed hope that this support would continue to foster public interest in using mass transit.
“This could serve as a model for other provinces in Indonesia,” the minister added.
The Teman Bus program under the BTS scheme symbolizes the central government’s commitment to developing safe, comfortable, and affordable urban mass transportation for the people of South Kalimantan.
This visit also aims to strengthen synergy between the central and regional governments in realizing sustainable public transportation and enhancing regional connectivity.
On the same day, Minister Dudy also visited Trisakti Port, which serves as a key gateway for goods and passengers between islands and countries.
Trisakti is the largest and busiest port in Kalimantan, featuring a 1,160-meter-long dock, a 12,903 square meter stacking yard, and warehouses covering 10,450 square meters.
During the visit, the minister was accompanied by South Kalimantan Deputy Governor Hasnuryadi Sulaiman, Banjarmasin Deputy Mayor Ananda, Director General of Sea Transportation Muhammad Masyhud, Secretary of the Directorate General of Land Transportation Ahmad Yani, and other officials.
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Translator: Muhamad, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Primayanti
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
